Pope sacks bishops after financial scandal.

Grant Gallicho July 31, 2013 - 12:53pm

At the bottom of today's Vatican news bulletin[1], you'll find news that two of Solvenia's top bishops have resigned, "in accordance with canon 401 para. 2 of the Code of Canon Law." That's the part that states, "A diocesan bishop who, because of illness or some other grave reason, has become unsuited for the fulfilment of his office, is earnestly requested to offer his resignation from office." In this case, it looks like these bishops were removed for the some other grave reason of being implicated in a major financial scandal[2]. They weren't kicked upstairs.

The scandal dates back to 2011, when media reported the diocese suffered losses of up to 800 million euros ($1.1 billion) on investments in a chain of failing businesses, including a nationwide TV network known for its variety of porn channels.

Maribor's previous bishop, Franc Kramberger, resigned after the reports. [Archbishops] Stres and Turnsek were at the time also allegedly involved in the diocese's finances, though they argue they weren't the most responsible for the losses.